Quaternary evolution of the Caravelas strandplain – Southern Bahia State – Brazil

Abstract

An evolutionary model is proposed for the Caravelas strandplain. The model encompasses integration of: (i) mapping of Quaternary deposits, (ii) cartography of beach-ridge alignments and their truncations, (iii) relative sea-level history, (iv) development history of the Abrolhos coral reefs, (v) vibra-coring and (vi) C14 dating of Quaternary deposits. Seven major evolutionary stages were identified. These stages show that the strandplain has had its Quaternary evolution strongly controlled by relative sea-level changes. In addition, the development of the Abrolhos coral reefs has also played an important role in dispersion and accumulation of sediments along the coastline, causing localized inversion in longshore sediment transport.